Retractable tarpaulin

ABSTRACT

A retractable shelter is described. In particular embodiments, a tarpaulin includes a conduit with a side wall having first and second inlets and an outlet at one end. A first lift cord may be attached near a lower edge of the tarpaulin, extend through the first set of loops, into the conduit through the first inlet, along the conduit, and then out through the outlet. A second lift cord may likewise extend through the second set of loops, into the conduit, and out through the outlet. One of more lift cords may be tied together, fastened, or braided along their respective lengths. The tarpaulin may include two or more panels equipped with loops, lift cords, conduits, and outlets. In use, the lift cords may be grasped and pulled through the outlet, raising the lower edge of the tarp toward the conduit.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/671,487, entitled “Retractable Tarpaulin Systems and Methods,” filed Jul. 13, 2012, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

The following disclosure relates generally to the field of outdoor equipment and, more specifically, to a shelter with one or more retractable panels for easy folding and storage by one person.

A tarpaulin can be used as a temporary shelter. Instead of pitching a tent, a tarpaulin can be suspended over a ridge rope tied between two trees or poles, with the sides pegged to the ground using one or more guy lines. Sometimes referred to as a bivouac, rain fly, or fly tent, this tarpaulin setup creates a temporary shelter from the elements (rain or sun, for example) while the user rests, eats, or sleeps.

Folding an ordinary tarpaulin after use can be difficult and time-consuming, especially for one person, and especially when the tarpaulin is wet. Spreading the tarpaulin on the ground in the forest typically exposes the tarpaulin fabric to wet or dirty undergrowth and/or mud, as well as a risk of tearing the fabric. A wet, muddy tarpaulin not only soils other gear in a backpack, but is also heavier to carry. Accordingly, there is a need for improved tarpaulin systems for and methods of folding and storing a tarpaulin.

SUMMARY

A retractable shelter, according to various embodiments, comprises a tarpaulin supported above a surface between two supports, wherein the tarpaulin defines a first conduit extending along an upper portion of the tarpaulin. The first conduit has a side wall and generally opposing proximal and distal ends. The first conduit defines first and second inlets in the side wall and a first outlet near the proximal end. A first set of loops may be fastened to the tarpaulin along a first path that is substantially transverse to the first conduit. A first lift cord may be attached near a lower edge of the tarpaulin and may extend through the first set of loops, through the first inlet into the first conduit, and out of the first conduit through the first outlet. The shelter may also include a second set of loops fastened to the tarpaulin along a second path, that is substantially transverse to the first conduit. A second lift cord may be attached near the lower edge of the tarpaulin and may extend through the second set of loops, through the second inlet into the first conduit, and also through the first outlet. The first and second lift cords are operable to selectively retract the lower edge of the tarpaulin from an extended position toward a collapsed position that is characterized by the lower edge being adjacent the first conduit.

According to further embodiments, a retractable shelter comprises a tarpaulin supported above a surface between two supports to form a peak ridge, whereby the tarpaulin is characterized by a first panel extending from the peak ridge to a lower edge, and a second panel extending from the peak ridge to a secondary lower edge. A first conduit is defined by the first panel and extends along the peak ridge, wherein the first conduit has a side wall and generally opposing proximal and distal ends, and wherein the first conduit defines first and second inlets in the side wall and a first outlet near the proximal end. A first set of loops is fastened to the first panel along a first path that is substantially transverse to the first conduit. A first lift cord is attached near the lower edge of the first panel and extends through the first set of loops, through the first inlet into the first conduit, and through the first outlet. A second set of loops is fastened to the first panel along a second path that is substantially transverse to the first conduit. A second lift cord is attached near the lower edge of the tarpaulin and extends through the second set of loops, through the second inlet into the first conduit, and through the first outlet. The first and second lift cords are operable to selectively retract the lower edge of the first panel from an extended position toward a collapsed position adjacent the first conduit. The shelter may further comprise a second conduit defined by the second panel and extending along the peak ridge, wherein the second conduit has a secondary side wall and generally opposing secondary proximal and distal ends, and wherein the second conduit defines secondary first and second inlets in the secondary side wall and a second outlet near the secondary distal end. A secondary first set of loops is fastened to the second panel along a secondary first path that is substantially transverse to the second conduit. A secondary first lift cord is attached near a secondary lower edge of the second panel and extends through the secondary first set of loops, through the secondary first inlet into the second conduit, and through the second outlet. A secondary second set of loops is fastened to the second panel along a secondary second path that is substantially transverse to the second conduit. A secondary second lift cord is attached near the secondary lower edge of the second panel and extends through the secondary second set of loops, through the secondary second inlet into the second conduit, and through the second outlet. The secondary first and second lift cords are operable to selectively retract the second lower edge of the second panel from a secondary extended position toward a secondary collapsed position adjacent the second conduit.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective illustration of a retractable shelter, according to various embodiments.

FIG. 2 is a side-view illustration of a retractable shelter, according to various embodiments.

FIG. 3 is a perspective illustration of a retractable shelter, according to various embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS EMBODIMENTS

The present systems and apparatuses and methods are understood more readily by reference to the following detailed description, examples, drawing, and claims, and their previous and following descriptions. However, before the present devices, systems, and/or methods are disclosed and described, it is to be understood that this invention is not limited to the specific devices, systems, and/or methods disclosed unless otherwise specified, as such can, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only and is not intended to be limiting.

The following description is provided as an enabling teaching in its best, currently known embodiment. To this end, those skilled in the relevant art will recognize and appreciate that many changes can be made to the various aspects described herein, while still obtaining the beneficial results of the technology disclosed. It will also be apparent that some of the desired benefits can be obtained by selecting some of the features while not utilizing others. Accordingly, those with ordinary skill in the art will recognize that many modifications and adaptations are possible, and may even be desirable in certain circumstances, and are a part of the invention described. Thus, the following description is provided as illustrative of the principles of the invention and not in limitation thereof.

As used throughout, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “a” component can include two or more such components unless the context indicates otherwise.

Ranges can be expressed herein as from “about” one particular value, and/or to “about” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another aspect includes from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms another aspect. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the other endpoint. Also, as used herein, the terms “optional” or “optionally” mean that the subsequently described event or circumstance may or may not occur, and that the description includes instances where said event or circumstance occurs and instances where it does not.

As used herein, the term “facilitate” means to make easier or less difficult and the terms “inhibit” and “impede” mean to interfere with, hinder, or delay the progress. Also, the words “proximal” and “distal” are used to describe items or portions of items that are situated closer to and away from, respectively, a user or operator. Thus, for example, the near end or other portion of an item may be referred to as the proximal end, whereas the generally opposing portion or far end may be referred to as the distal end.

Retractable Shelter

Although the various embodiments are described with reference to a tarpaulin, the assemblies and methods may be used with any of a variety of coverings, sheets, fabrics, or other materials.

A tarpaulin, or tarp, is a sheet of usually waterproof fabric for covering or protecting persons or items. A tarp may include eyelets, grommets, or loops near its corners and/or along its perimeter edges. When used as a temporary shelter, a tarp may be suspended above the ground by ropes or elastic cords, that are usually passed through the eyelets or grommets and attached to supports such as trees or poles. Guy lines may also be attached to the eyelets or grommets and anchored to the ground in order to spread the tarp fabric above a surface.

One Panel

FIG. 1 is an illustration of a retractable shelter 100 that comprises a tarpaulin 110, a first set of loops 160 a fastened to the tarpaulin along a first path 170 a. Through the first set of loops 160 a is a first lift cord 150 a that is attached near the lower edge 118 of the tarpaulin 110. As shown, the tarpaulin 110 may include a first conduit 120 near and along the upper portion of the tarpaulin. The first conduit 120 includes a side wall 122, a first inlet 130 a, and a first outlet 144 located on a proximal end 124 of the conduit.

Although sets of loops are shown FIG. 1, other types of elements are contemplated for retaining a cord passing therethrough For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3, and discussed herein, a set of loops may be made using a set of tabs having a grommet or eyelet therethrough for receiving a cord.

The first lift cord 150 a is fastened at an attachment point 158 a near the lower edge 118 of the tarpaulin 110, the cord 150 a extends through the first set of loops 160 a positioned along a first path 170 a, into the first inlet 130 a, through the conduit 120, and out through the first outlet 144 where it can be grasped by a user. The tarp 110 is shown in an extended position (with guy lines attached at the corners and to pegs in the ground 10). To retract the tarp 110 to a collapsed position, the user may pull on the first lift cord 150 a which draws the lower edge 118 of the tarp fabric upward toward the first conduit 120.

The first lift cord 150 a may include a first retainer 180 a near the outlet 144 for releasably grasping the lift cord 150 a. The retainer 180 a may be a spring-biased cord lock or any other type of retaining device.

As illustrated in FIG. 1, the retractable shelter 100 may include a plurality of lift cords 150 a, 150 b, 150 c, 150 d, each of which enters the conduit 120 and exit through the first outlet 144 located at the proximal end 124 of the conduit. The opposing or distal end 126 in this embodiment is closed. In use, a person may pull all the cords simultaneously in order to draw the lower edge 118 of the tarp fabric upward toward a collapsed position.

The second lift cord 150 b includes a plurality of second loops positioned along a second path 170 b, into the second inlet 130 b, through the conduit 120, and out of the first outlet 144 where it can be grasped by a user. Similarly, the third lift cord 150 c includes a plurality of third loops positioned along a third path 170 c, into the third inlet 130 c, through the conduit 120, and out of the first outlet 144. The fourth lift cord 150 d includes a plurality of fourth loops positioned along a fourth path 170 d, into the fourth inlet 130 d, through the conduit 120, and out of the first outlet 144.

Each lift cord may include its own retainer. As shown, for example, the first lift cord 150 a may be releasably grasped by a first retainer 180 a positioned near the outlet 144. The second lift cord 150 b may be releasably grasped by a second retainer 180 b. In particular embodiments, one or more lift cords may be releasably grasped by a single combination retainer 192, such as the one shown in FIG. 1 that receives both the third and fourth lift cords 150 c, 150 d. A spring-biased cord lock may be used for any of the retainers.

As shown in FIG. 1, the retainer or other fastener is located near the outlet 144 when the tarp is in its fully extended position. In this aspect, the retainer or other fastener keeps the lift cords from retreating into the conduit which, in turn, keeps the tarpaulin 110 from unintentionally returning to its expanded position.

Instead of a cord-lock or similar retainer, one or more lift cords may be fastened together near the first outlet 144; for example, FIG. 3 illustrated a hand-tied knot or another type of fastener joining two lift cords together.

In other particular embodiments, one or more lift cords may be fastened together, along their respective lengths, from the free ends (i.e., proximal ends) to a point near the first outlet 144. The lift cords may be adhered together, braided, woven into a single cord, or otherwise joined, as illustrated in FIG. 3. Like the cord-lock retainer and the hand-knot, the braiding keeps the lift cords from retreating into the conduit which, in turn, keeps the tarpaulin 110 from unintentionally returning to its expanded position.

In other particular embodiments, the fastened-together portions of the cords may extend into the conduit for as long as the two cords lie adjacent one another—for example, the first and second lift cords 150 a, 150 b may be braided or otherwise fastened together from their proximal ends all the way to the first inlet 130 a, where the first lift cord 150 a leaves the conduit 120.

The first conduit 120, as shown in FIG. 1, may be positioned along the upper edge 119 of the tarp 110. In particular embodiments, the first conduit 120 lies along and is substantially parallel to the upper edge. As shown, the tarpaulin 110 may include a suspension conduit 320 with a suspension cord 330 passing therethrough. Using the cord 330, the tarp 110 may be suspended between two supports 14, 16 such as trees or posts.

Although the retractable shelter 100 is described in the context of a generally rectangular tarp, the assemblies and methods described herein may be used with a tarpaulin, ground sheet, or other fabric panel having any particular size or shape.

One Panel with Tabs

FIG. 2 is an illustration of a retractable shelter 100 like the one shown in FIG. 1, except the tarpaulin 110 is supported by suspension lines 24 26, the tarpaulin 110 includes sets of tabs each having an eyelet therethrough (instead of loops) for receiving the cords, and the tarpaulin 110 is hanging in a generally vertical orientation. Although the passage through the tabs may be described herein as an eyelet, a simple buttonhole or other small hole may be used to receive a cord through the tab. The eyelet may be protected by a small ring of durable material such as a grommet.

As shown, a first set of tabs 360 a each having a grommet or eyelet 362 a, in this embodiment, is fastened to the tarpaulin 110 along a first path 170 a. Through the first set of loops 360 a is a first lift cord 150 a that is fastened at an attachment point 158 a near the lower edge 118 of the tarpaulin 110.

As illustrated in FIG. 2, the retractable shelter 100 may include a plurality of lift cords 150 a, 150 b, 150 c, 150 d, each of which enters the conduit 120 and exits through the first outlet 144 located at the proximal end 124 of the conduit. The opposing or distal end 126 in this embodiment is closed. In use, a person may pull all the cords simultaneously in order to draw the lower edge 118 of the tarp fabric upward toward a collapsed position.

The second lift cord 150 b engages with a set of second tabs 360 b and eyelets 362 b positioned along a second path 170 b, into the second inlet 130 b, through the conduit 120, and out of the first outlet 144 where it can be grasped by a user. Similarly, the third lift cord 150 c engages with a set of third tabs 360 c and eyelets 362 c positioned along a third path 170 c, into the third inlet 130 c, through the conduit 120, and out of the first outlet 144. The fourth lift cord 150 d engages with a set of third tabs 360 d and eyelets 362 d positioned along a fourth path 170 d, into the fourth inlet 130 d, through the conduit 120, and out of the first outlet 144.

The first conduit 120, as shown in FIG. 1, may be positioned along the upper edge of the tarp 110. In particular embodiments, the first conduit 120 lies along and is substantially parallel to the upper edge. As shown, the tarpaulin 110 may include first or proximate suspension line 24 and on the other end a second or distal suspension line 26. Using the lines 24, 26 the tarp 110 may be suspended between two supports 14, 16 such as trees or posts.

Although the retractable shelter 100 is described in the context of a generally rectangular tarp, the assemblies and methods described herein may be used with a tarpaulin, ground sheet, or other fabric panel having any particular size or shape.

Two Panels, Peak Ridge

FIG. 3 is an illustration of a retractable shelter 200 that comprises a tarpaulin having a first panel 111 and a second panel 211. The suspension of the tarp (near its approximate middle, for example) forms or creates a peak ridge that separates the two panels 111, 211. The material or fabric of the tarpaulin, of course, may be continuous across the peak ridge such that the two panels 111, 211 are, in fact, made of the same piece of fabric.

The first panel 111, as shown, may include the lift cords, loops (tabs with eyelets), and a first conduit as described above and illustrated in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2. The second panel 211 may include a similar set of secondary lift cords 250 a, 250 b, 250 c, 250 d, a second conduit 222, and a secondary outlet 246 that is positioned near the distal end 226—at the opposite end of the tarp from where the first cords 150 a, 150 b exit the first outlet 144.

Accordingly, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3, the first panel 111 may be retracted by pulling the lift cords at the proximal or first outlet 144; and the second panel 112 may be retracted by pulling the secondary lift cords located at the other end of the tarp, through the distal or second outlet 246. In this aspect, one entire side panel of the tarp (the first panel 111, for example) may be raised toward its collapsed position near the peak ridge, before the user moves to the opposite end and raises the other side panel (the second panel 211, for example). Once accomplished, as described herein, both panels 111, 112 are retracted toward a collapsed position near the peak ridge of the shelter 200.

As shown in FIG. 3, one or more lift cords may be fastened to others near their respective outlet. For example, near the first outlet 144, the combination retainer 192 which fastens the first lift cord 150 a to the second lift cord 150 b may be a hand-tied knot, as shown.

Also, as shown, one or more lift cords may be fastened together along their respective lengths, from their respective free ends to a point near the outlet 144. For example, near the first outlet 144, the third and fourth lift cords 150 c, 150 d are braided together from their proximal ends to a point near the first outlet 144.

Methods of Use

In use, as illustrated in FIG. 1, the tarpaulin 110 may be used as a temporary shelter 100, using a suspension cord 330 between two supports 14, 16 such as poles or trees. Guy lines may be attached to the tarp at the lower corners or along the edges, and fastened to ground stakes or other secure anchors, in order to spread the tarp fabric above a surface 10.

When the tarp is in place and ready for use as a shelter, the lift cords 150 a, 150 b, 150 c, 150 d, are typically relaxed or slack, and the retainers 180 a, 180 b, 180 c, 180 d are typically positioned on each cord very near the first outlet 144. The proximal ends of the lift cords may extend only a short distance beyond the outlet, because only a short length of lift cord needs to be accessible by the user.

When the user is ready to retract and fold the tarpaulin, the guy lines may be disconnected from the stakes or other anchors, after which the tarp may hang in a generally vertical orientation, as shown in FIG. 2. At the proximal end 124 of the first conduit 120, the user may grasp and pull all the lift cords 150 a, 150 b, 150 c, 150 d through first outlet 144. As the lift cords are withdrawn through the first outlet 144, the lower edge 118 of the tarpaulin 110 will retract from its expanded position upward, toward the first conduit 120.

As the tarpaulin 110 is retracted, the fabric will typically fold at regular intervals as the loops (or tabs) are drawn closer together. The user may halt the retraction at any point, and fasten one or more of the retainers onto the lift cords, which will hold the tarpaulin 110 in any intermediate position, thereby selectively retracting the tarpaulin 110 to a desired intermediate position. At an intermediate position, for example, the user may want to shake debris or water off the tarp before continuing. The user may also retract the tarpaulin 110 more fully, until the lower edge 118 is very near the first conduit 120. The user can then fasten one or more of the retainers on the lift cords and hold the tarpaulin 110 in place in a collapsed position. Then, the user may disconnect the suspension cord 330 (or suspension lines 24, 26) from the supports 14, 16 and fold or otherwise prepare the tarpaulin 110 for storage until its next use.

Referring to the two-panel shelter 200 shown in FIG. 3, the user may disconnect either of the two panels 111, 211 from the ground stakes or other anchors when the user is ready to retract and fold the tarpaulin.

For example, when folding the first panel 111, starting at the proximal end 124 of the first conduit 120, the user may grasp and pull all the lift cords 150 a, 150 b, 150 c, 150 d through first outlet 144. As the lift cords are withdrawn through the first outlet 144, the lower edge 118 of the first panel 111 will retract from its expanded position upward, toward the first conduit 120. As the first panel 111 is retracted, the fabric will typically fold at regular intervals as the loops (or tabs) are drawn closer together. The user may halt the retraction at any point, and fasten one or more of the retainers onto the lift cords, which will hold the first panel 111 in any intermediate position, thereby selectively retracting the first panel 111 to a desired intermediate position. At an intermediate position, for example, the user may want to shake debris or water off the tarp before continuing. The user may also retract the first panel 111 more fully, until the lower edge 118 is very near the first conduit 120. The user can then fasten one or more of the retainers on the lift cords and hold the first panel 111 in place in a collapsed position.

At this point, the user may wish to keep the first panel 111 in a collapsed position while keeping the second panel 211 in an extended position for continued use as a shelter. In this aspect, the two-panel shelter 200 may be used as a single-panel shelter 100 like the one shown in FIG. 1.

When the user is ready to retract and fold the second panel 211, the guy lines may be disconnected from the stakes or other anchors, after which the second panel 211 may hang in a generally vertical orientation. At the secondary or distal end 226, the user may grasp and pull all the lift cords 250 a, 250 b, 250 c, 250 d through first outlet 246. As the lift cords are withdrawn through the second outlet 246, the lower edge 218 of the second panel 211 will retract from its expanded position upward, toward the second conduit 220. As the second panel 211 is retracted, the fabric will typically fold at regular intervals as the loops (or tabs) are drawn closer together. The user may halt the retraction at any point, and fasten one or more of the retainers onto the lift cords, which will hold the second panel 211 in any intermediate position, thereby selectively retracting the second panel 211 to a desired intermediate position. At an intermediate position, for example, the user may want to shake debris or water off the tarp before continuing. The user may also retract the second panel 211 more fully, until the lower edge 218 is very near the second conduit 220. The user can then fasten one or more of the retainers on the lift cords and hold the second panel 211 in place in a collapsed position.

Then, having retracted both panels 111, 211 to a desired collapsed position, the user may disconnect the suspension cord 330 (or the suspension lines 24, 26) from the supports 14, 16 and then fold or otherwise prepare the tarpaulin for storage until its next use.

In the manner described, the tarp may be folded by one person, without spreading it on the ground. During retraction and folding, any rain water or other debris can be shaken off or otherwise removed from the tarp. The folded tarp is not muddied or torn from exposure to the ground and ready to be stowed in a backpack.

CONCLUSION

Although the assemblies and methods are described herein in the context of folding and stowing a tarp, the technology disclosed herein is also useful and applicable in other contexts. Moreover, although several embodiments have been described herein, those of ordinary skill in art, with the benefit of the teachings of this disclosure, will understand and comprehend many other embodiments and modifications for this technology. The invention therefore is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed or discussed herein, and that may other embodiments and modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Moreover, although specific terms are occasionally used herein, as well as in the claims or concepts that follow, such terms are used in a generic and descriptive sense only, and should not be construed as limiting the described invention or the claims that follow. 

1. A retractable shelter comprising: a tarpaulin supported above a surface between two supports, wherein said tarpaulin defines a first conduit extending along an upper portion of said tarpaulin; wherein said first conduit has a side wall and generally opposing proximal and distal ends, and wherein said first conduit defines first and second inlets in said side wall and a first outlet near said proximal end; a first set of loops fastened to said tarpaulin along a first path that is substantially transverse to said first conduit; a first lift cord attached near a lower edge of said tarpaulin and extending through said first set of loops, through said first inlet into said first conduit, and through said first outlet; a second set of loops fastened to said tarpaulin along a second path that is substantially transverse to said first conduit; and a second lift cord attached near said lower edge of said tarpaulin and extending through said second set of loops, through said second inlet into said first conduit, and through said first outlet, wherein said first and second lift cords are operable to selectively retract said lower edge of said tarpaulin from an extended position toward a collapsed position characterized by said lower edge being adjacent said first conduit.
 2. The retractable shelter of claim 1, further comprising: a first retainer for releasably grasping said first lift cord near said first outlet; and a second retainer for releasably grasping said second lift cord near said first outlet, such that said lower edge of said tarpaulin is selectively securable at a plurality of intermediate positions between said extended position and said collapsed position.
 3. The retractable shelter of claim 1, further comprising a combination retainer for releasably grasping both said first and second lift cords near said first outlet, such that said lower edge of said tarpaulin is selectively securable at a plurality of intermediate positions between said extended position and said collapsed position.
 4. The retractable shelter of claim 3, wherein said combination retainer comprises a spring-biased cord lock having a barrel with an opening that is sized and shaped to receive both said first and second lift cords, wherein said barrel contains a spring-mounted plunger biased toward grasping said cords.
 5. The retractable shelter of claim 1, wherein said first and second lift cords are fastened together near said first outlet when said lower edge of said tarpaulin is near said extended position.
 6. The retractable shelter of claim 5, wherein said first and second lift cords are fastened together, along their respective lengths, from at least near the proximal ends of said cords to a point near said first outlet of said firs conduit when said lower edge of said tarpaulin is near said extended position.
 7. The retractable shelter of claim 5, wherein said first and second lift cords are fastened together, along their respective lengths, from at least near the proximal ends of said cords to a point near said first inlet inside said first conduit when said lower edge of said tarpaulin is near said extended position.
 8. The retractable shelter of claim 1, wherein said first conduit lies along and substantially parallel to an upper edge of said tarpaulin.
 9. The retractable shelter of claim 1, wherein said first set of loops comprises a plurality of first loops that are substantially evenly spaced apart along said first path, wherein said second set of loops comprises a plurality of second loops that are substantially evenly spaced apart along said second path, and wherein said plurality of first loops and said plurality of second loops are substantially aligned relative to an axis that is substantially parallel to said first conduit.
 10. The retractable shelter of claim 1, wherein said first set of loops comprises a plurality of first tabs, each defining a first eyelet sized and shaped to loosely receive said first lift cord therethrough; and wherein said second set of loops comprises a plurality of second tabs, each defining a second eyelet sized and shaped to loosely receive said second lift cord therethrough.
 11. The retractable shelter of claim 1, wherein said tarpaulin is supported above said surface by a proximal suspension cord attached to a proximal one of said two supports, and by a distal suspension cord attached to a distal one of said two supports.
 12. The retractable shelter of claim 1, wherein said tarpaulin is supported above said surface by a suspension cord attached to said two supports, wherein said tarpaulin further defines a suspension conduit sized and shaped for receiving said suspension cord therethrough.
 13. A retractable shelter comprising: a tarpaulin supported above a surface between two supports to form a peak ridge, whereby said tarpaulin is characterized by a first panel extending from said peak ridge to a lower edge, and a second panel extending from said peak ridge to a secondary lower edge, a first conduit defined by said first panel and extending along said peak ridge, wherein said first conduit has a side wall and generally opposing proximal and distal ends, and wherein said first conduit defines first and second inlets in said side wall and a first outlet near said proximal end; a first set of loops fastened to said first panel along a first path that is substantially transverse to said first conduit; a first lift cord attached near said lower edge of said first panel and extending through said first set of loops, through said first inlet into said first conduit, and through said first outlet; a second set of loops fastened to said first panel along a second path that is substantially transverse to said first conduit; a second lift cord attached near said lower edge of said tarpaulin and extending through said second set of loops, through said second inlet into said first conduit, and through said first outlet, wherein said first and second lift cords are operable to selectively retract said lower edge of said first panel from an extended position toward a collapsed position adjacent said first conduit; a second conduit defined by said second panel and extending along said peak ridge, wherein said second conduit has a secondary side wall and generally opposing secondary proximal and distal ends, and wherein said second conduit defines secondary first and second inlets in said secondary side wall and a second outlet near said secondary distal end; a secondary first set of loops fastened to said second panel along a secondary first path that is substantially transverse to said second conduit; a secondary first lift cord attached near a secondary lower edge of said second panel and extending through said secondary first set of loops, through said secondary first inlet into said second conduit, and through said second outlet; a secondary second set of loops fastened to said second panel along a secondary second path that is substantially transverse to said second conduit; and a secondary second lift cord attached near said secondary lower edge of said second panel and extending through said secondary second set of loops, through said secondary second inlet into said second conduit, and through said second outlet, wherein said secondary first and second lift cords are operable to selectively retract said second lower edge of said second panel from a secondary extended position toward a secondary collapsed position adjacent said second conduit.
 14. The retractable shelter of claim 13, further comprising: a first retainer for releasably grasping said first lift cord near said first outlet; a second retainer for releasably grasping said second lift cord near said first outlet, such that said lower edge of said first panel of said tarpaulin is selectively securable at a plurality of intermediate positions between said extended position and said collapsed position. a secondary first retainer for releasably grasping said secondary first lift cord near said second outlet; a secondary second retainer for releasably grasping said secondary second lift cord near said second outlet, such that said secondary lower edge of said second panel of said tarpaulin is selectively securable at a plurality of intermediate positions between said extended position and said secondary collapsed position.
 15. The retractable shelter of claim 13, further comprising: a combination retainer for releasably grasping both said first and second lift cords near said first outlet, such that said lower edge of said first panel of said tarpaulin is selectively securable at a plurality of intermediate positions between said extended position and said collapsed position; and a secondary combination retainer for releasably grasping both said secondary first and secondary second lift cords near said second outlet, such that said secondary lower edge of said second panel of said tarpaulin is selectively securable at a plurality of intermediate positions between said secondary extended position and said secondary collapsed position.
 16. The retractable shelter of claim 13, wherein said first and second lift cords are fastened together near said first outlet when said lower edge of said first panel of said tarpaulin is near said extended position, and wherein said secondary first and second lift cords are fastened together near said second outlet when said secondary lower edge of said second panel of said tarpaulin is near said secondary extended position.
 17. The retractable shelter of claim 13, wherein said first and second lift cords are fastened together, along their respective lengths, from at least near the proximal ends of said cords to a point near said first outlet when said lower edge of said first panel of said tarpaulin is near said extended position.
 18. The retractable shelter of claim 13, wherein said first and second lift cords are fastened together, along their respective lengths, from at least near the proximal ends of said cords to a point near said first inlet inside said first conduit when said lower edge of said first panel of tarpaulin is near said extended position.
 19. The retractable shelter of claim 13, wherein said first conduit lies along and substantially parallel to said peak ridge, and wherein said second conduit lies along and substantially parallel to said peak ridge.
 20. The retractable shelter of claim 13, wherein said first set of loops comprises a plurality of first loops that are substantially evenly spaced apart along said first path, wherein said second set of loops comprises a plurality of second loops that are substantially evenly spaced apart along said second path, and wherein said plurality of first loops and said plurality of second loops are substantially aligned relative to an axis that is substantially parallel to said first conduit.
 21. The retractable shelter of claim 13, wherein said first set of loops comprises a plurality of first tabs, each defining a first eyelet sized and shaped to loosely receive said first lift cord therethrough; and wherein said second set of loops comprises a plurality of second tabs, each defining a second eyelet sized and shaped to loosely receive said second lift cord therethrough.
 22. The retractable shelter of claim 13, wherein said tarpaulin is supported above said surface by a proximal suspension cord attached to a proximal one of said two supports, and by a distal suspension cord attached to a distal one of said two supports.
 23. The retractable shelter of claim 13, wherein said tarpaulin is supported above said surface by a suspension cord attached to said two supports, wherein said tarpaulin further defines a suspension conduit along said peak ridge that is sized and shaped for receiving said suspension cord therethrough. 